Serving the High Plains

Preservation group stops in town

Members promoting addition of Route 66 to National Historic Trail.

TUCUMCARI — Members of a cross country road trip to promote the addition of U.S. Route 66 as a National Historic Trail stopped Thursday in Tucumcari.

An Airstream camper promoting the efforts of the National Trust for Historic Preservation was parked at the Blue Swallow Motel with members handing out information and gifts to visitors and residents.

“It’s all about getting out and speaking with the people who have their own special connection to Route 66,” said Grant Stevens, NTHP member.

Stevens said while they are on the road trip they will share the stories of historic sites along Route 66 and build support for the National Historic Trail designation. He said there are many sites to see on Route 66, and visiting with tourists and residents about what makes it special to them is an amazing experience.

The road trip, expected to end on Aug. 3, will travel the full length of Route 66 from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California.

“Driving Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip,” said Amy Webb, senior field director of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “It is the most iconic, culturally-celebrated and internationally-recognized stretch of highway in America. By promoting this authentic experience, we can help preserve a beloved icon and at the same time revive local economies in rural communities.”